Androstenedione

What is the Androstenedione Test?

The androstenedione test measures the level of androstenedione, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands and reproductive organs. It serves as a precursor to both testosterone and oestrogen, making it an important marker for evaluating androgen excess or deficiency.

This test is widely used in the assessment of conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and disorders affecting the ovaries, testes, or adrenal glands. Because androstenedione sits early in the hormone production pathway, abnormal levels often provide early clues of endocrine disruption even before testosterone or oestrogen levels change.

Androstenedione testing is essential when patients present with symptoms of hormonal imbalance, fertility difficulties, irregular cycles, or androgen-related skin and hair changes.

Why do I need a test for Androstenedione?

You may need an androstenedione test if you have symptoms of excess androgens, unexplained menstrual irregularities, fertility challenges, or signs suggesting adrenal dysfunction. The test helps clinicians understand where in the hormonal cascade an imbalance may be occurring, guiding further investigations and treatment.

Because androstenedione is produced in both the adrenal glands and reproductive organs, elevated or suppressed levels can indicate a wide range of endocrine conditions. It is particularly useful when symptoms are non-specific, as it helps uncover hidden hormone disturbances that traditional tests may miss.

Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
• Difficulties conceiving
• Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
• Acne or oily skin resistant to treatment
• Thinning scalp hair or androgenic alopecia
• Unexplained weight gain or metabolic issues
• Deepening of the voice or changes in libido
• Suspicion of PCOS or CAH
• Early or delayed puberty in adolescents

Benefits of the Androstenedione Test

• Identifies androgen excess early in the hormonal pathway
  Detects abnormalities before testosterone changes become evident, allowing faster diagnosis of PCOS and adrenal disorders.
• Supports diagnosis of conditions affecting the adrenal glands
  Helps distinguish between adrenal-driven androgen excess and ovarian/testicular causes.
• Essential for PCOS evaluation
  Many individuals with PCOS show raised androstenedione, helping confirm the biochemical pattern of the condition.
• Aids fertility assessments
  Imbalanced androgens can affect ovulation and menstrual regularity, making this test valuable during fertility investigations.
• Useful for diagnosing congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH)
  Elevated androstenedione is a key marker in identifying enzyme deficiencies affecting cortisol and androgen synthesis.
• Monitors treatment effectiveness
  Helps track response to hormonal therapies, adrenal medications, or lifestyle interventions.
• Clarifies the cause of androgen-related symptoms
  Supports the evaluation of acne, hirsutism, hair thinning, and other androgen-driven issues.
• Guides further endocrine testing
  Abnormal results help clinicians decide whether additional hormone panels, imaging, or specialist referral is needed.

Step-by-Step: How Testing Works

Step 1 – Choose your preferred testing method

You can take this test at one of our UK partner clinics or book a mobile phlebotomy visit to your home, office or hotel.

Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw

1. Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
2. A doctor or phlebotomist takes a venous blood sample.
3. The sample is sent to the laboratory for androgen analysis.
4. Results are delivered securely online once available.

Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)

1. Choose a convenient date and time for a mobile visit anywhere in the UK.
2. A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample at your location.
3. The sample is packaged and transported using clinical-grade protocols.
4. Results are uploaded to your secure account, no travel required.

Step 3 – Access your results

You’ll receive a full laboratory report that you can download, store, and share with your doctor or specialist.

Your Results Explained

Low Levels

Low androstenedione may indicate reduced adrenal or ovarian/testicular hormone production, adrenal insufficiency, pituitary gland dysfunction, or certain genetic conditions.
Typical UK reference range: approximately 0.5–4.5 nmol/L (ranges vary by lab and age).
Low values may be associated with fatigue, low libido, menstrual irregularities, or delayed puberty and require further hormonal evaluation.

Normal Levels

Normal androstenedione levels fall within the expected range for age and sex and generally indicate balanced androgen production.
Typical range: 0.5–4.5 nmol/L.
A normal result does not rule out PCOS or other hormonal disorders, as some conditions present primarily through imbalance in other androgens.

High Levels

High androstenedione levels are strongly associated with PCOS, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, adrenal tumours, ovarian tumours, or excessive adrenal stimulation.
Typical elevated levels: above 4.5 nmol/L (may vary).
Raised levels often correlate with symptoms such as acne, hirsutism, infertility, and irregular cycles.